Nikon FM10: Review

Posted to 35mm Cameras 2009-09-19

Nikon FM10 review:

Feasts your eyes on memory lane, with the Nikon FM10 35mm SLR. Cameras were not always slim, chrome plated devices that fit snuggly into your handbag, in fact, if you tried to fit the FM10 in there it is probably all you would get in, but lack of fashion does not mean lack of quality and reliability.

The FM10 was first produced in 1995 and is handheld camera that shoots in standard 35mm film format. Lens support is quite vast with the FM10 supporting all Nikkor AF-D, AI-P, AF-I, AI-S and AF-S lenses. Digital cameras have there supporters, rightfully so given the ease of use and portability of media, but something about the FM10 has kept it in circulation. It has a manual film wind and manual exposure control for that extra retro touch that you need should you be not wanting to get involved in the digital world.

Rating:

3.8 out of 5

Quality

There is no question that the Nikon FM10 is what quality manufacturing is all about. The public have been buying this unit since 1995, so the fact that it is still available for purchase more than 15 years later is a good indication that you can rely on what you are buying. The FM10 also comes with an f3.5 - f4.8 zoom lens, as most cameras made 'in the day' were body only and did not have built in zooms like today's digital versions.

Features

The lens mount in the FM10 is an all metal Nikon F Mount, with a fixed eye-level viewfinder. Its vertical travelling, metal focal plane shutter is capable of shutter speeds between 1 to 1/2000 of a second. There is a mechanical timer on the unit also that has a 10second release delay. Batteries used within the unit are 2x 1.5 volt SR44 or LR44 type. Tripod sockets are available on the bottom of the camera so that it may be easily attached to any tripod with a 1/4inch x 20inch thread socket.

Summary

For many people the FM10 will remind them of there first family camera that was regularly brought out for the annual Christmas photos or family picnics. The retro feel of the Nikon FM10 is enough to make an older photography student or amateur photographer feel right at home. If you are interested in seeing just how far 35mm cameras came in their day, the FM10 is a good a place as any to start.

Pros

35mm Camera SLR
Nikon name
Not bulkier than a digital slr
Great Image quality

Cons

Bulkier than a digital camera